Why is administrative neutrality necessary in elections?

Correct answer: So no candidate gets an unfair benefit from government machinery

Correct answer: A. Election officials and government machinery must act according to law and must not use their authority to favour the ruling party or any particular candidate. Neutral administration helps maintain equal rules for everyone: candidates should be able to campaign under the same legal conditions, voters should be able to vote without official pressure, and polling and counting should be conducted fairly. If officials misuse public vehicles, offices, security, or authority for one candidate, that candidate receives an unfair advantage and public trust falls. B is incorrect because the purpose of administration is to help eligible citizens participate safely, not to keep them at home. C is incorrect because a neutral administration must allow lawful campaigning by the opposition as well as others. D is incorrect because results should be properly counted and publicly declared, not hidden. Memory cue: neutral officials, equal rules, fair contest.